Members will understandably be concerned about being scheduled to operate to Middle East destinations at this time. The current conflict is widespread and has already resulted in the closure of airspace over Iran, Israel, Iraq, Kuwait, and Syria, with other regional airspace experiencing intermittent restrictions. Despite this, some areas that have been subject to attacks remain open, and flights continue to be scheduled to these and other destinations.
Given the unpredictable nature of conflict and the potential for escalation, the following guidance is issued for members asked to operate to locations of concern.
Operational Guidance for Crews
1. Check official travel advice
In addition to all standard pre‑flight checks, review the latest UK Foreign Office travel advice for your scheduled destination and any potential alternates. Note the contact number for the UK Embassy at your destination and ensure you have the IPA emergency contact number readily available.
2. Review company briefing material
Read your company’s briefing note carefully and ensure it sets out suitable and sufficient arrangements for dealing with operational emergencies arising from the conflict.
3. Request the company’s Risk Assessment
Ask to see the current Risk Assessment for the operation. If the company is unwilling to provide it, the duty brief should still contain enough information to satisfy you that the operation is safe and that adequate contingency plans exist.
4. Clarify airspace and airport closure contingencies
Ask what arrangements are in place should airspace or airports close at any point during your duty.
5. Understand evacuation arrangements
If you become stranded, confirm what plans the company has to evacuate you and your crew should flights become impossible.
6. Ensure robust communication capability
Always keep company communications available. Consider requesting satellite phones to maintain contact if mobile networks fail.
7. Monitor official advice if stranded
If you are unable to leave a location, continue to monitor FCO guidance and local government instructions.
8. Follow local safety instructions during an attack
If an attack occurs while you are in‑country, follow local government advice—typically to remain indoors, ideally in basement or sheltered areas. Take water, food, and a reliable means of external communication.
Command Responsibility
It is essential to remember that, as captain, you hold ultimate responsibility for the safe operation of the aircraft. You must be satisfied that the operation can be conducted safely given the prevailing circumstances.
If you are asked to operate to an open location that the FCO does not advise against travel to the company is likely to treat any refusal to fly as a missed duty that results in pay forfeiture and in the worse case discipline. If you do not feel it is safe to operate, you should discuss your concerns with your line manager and note any reply you receive. If you do decline to operate because of your genuine concerns and company action follows the IPA will support you.
